Between baked goods, candles, and coupon cards, it might seem like your child's school activities are draining every penny from your wallet. Not to mention, if you have more than one child in school, it probably feels like you're paying a fortune in sports fees, extra-curricular activities and fundraisers. While you want to support your child at school, it can seem like an impossible task!
Here are four tips to surviving school fundraisers on a budget:
1. Plan ahead. If your child has been in the same school district for a while, you probably know how their school's fundraising cycle works. Plan ahead and set aside some extra cash so you can be ready when they bring home the candy bar, wrapping paper, or cookie sale form.
2. Make them responsible. It's never too early to start teaching your kids the value of a dollar. Go door-to-door with your child to sell whatever product it is they've signed up for. They can even bring their fundraising form to family functions where grandma and grandpa are sure to support. If your child receives an allowance or has a part-time job, have them contribute to their own fundraiser. This gives them the chance to become personally invested.
3. Get involved. If you're tired of struggling through the same fundraisers every year, join the school PTO and be a part of the planning process. You'll be able to make suggestions and give practical ideas on how to make fundraisers and school activities easier for parents on a budget.
4. Honesty is the best policy. Let's face it, sometimes you just don't have the extra money to spend. While you don't want to disappoint your kids, it's best to be honest. Explain to your child that the family is on a budget. Let them know from the beginning that you won't be able to participate. Help them figure out creative ways to get others involved in the fundraising efforts.
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Here are four tips to surviving school fundraisers on a budget:
1. Plan ahead. If your child has been in the same school district for a while, you probably know how their school's fundraising cycle works. Plan ahead and set aside some extra cash so you can be ready when they bring home the candy bar, wrapping paper, or cookie sale form.
2. Make them responsible. It's never too early to start teaching your kids the value of a dollar. Go door-to-door with your child to sell whatever product it is they've signed up for. They can even bring their fundraising form to family functions where grandma and grandpa are sure to support. If your child receives an allowance or has a part-time job, have them contribute to their own fundraiser. This gives them the chance to become personally invested.
3. Get involved. If you're tired of struggling through the same fundraisers every year, join the school PTO and be a part of the planning process. You'll be able to make suggestions and give practical ideas on how to make fundraisers and school activities easier for parents on a budget.
4. Honesty is the best policy. Let's face it, sometimes you just don't have the extra money to spend. While you don't want to disappoint your kids, it's best to be honest. Explain to your child that the family is on a budget. Let them know from the beginning that you won't be able to participate. Help them figure out creative ways to get others involved in the fundraising efforts.
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